English Setter vs Saint Bernard
A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.
English Setter
Also known as: Laverack Setter, Llewellin Setter
The English Setter is a graceful and elegant gun dog known for its distinctive feathered coat and gentle demeanor. Often called the 'gentleman of the dog world,' they combine athletic prowess with a sweet, affectionate temperament that makes them exceptional family companions for active households.
Large
High
11-13 yrs
61-69 cm
Saint Bernard
The Saint Bernard is a large, gentle dog breed known for its impressive size, friendly demeanor, and history as a rescue dog in the Swiss Alps. Renowned for their loyalty and affectionate nature, these dogs make excellent family companions and are easily recognizable by their distinctive, expressive faces and thick, warm coats.
Extra Large
Medium
8-10 yrs
N/A
Quick Comparison
| Trait | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming Needs | ||
| Family Friendly | ||
| Independence |
Key Characteristics
| Good with Kids | ||
| Good with Dogs | ||
| Good with Cats | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Apartment Friendly | ||
| First-Time Owner OK |
| Detail | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Large | Extra Large |
| Energy Level | High | Medium |
| Grooming | High | High |
| Trainability | Moderate | challenging |
| Barking Level | Medium | High |
| Shedding Level | High | High |
| Chew strength | Moderate | Hard |
| Housing | Yard | Yard |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Intermediate | Experienced |
| First-Time Owner | ||
| Ideal Owner | Hikers, runners, hunters, or active families with a large fenced yard. Someone who works from home or can provide companionship. Understanding they are getting a hunting dog, not a couch ornament. | Active individual or family who can provide adequate exercise and training for a Saint Bernard. |
English Setter Dealbreakers
- No fenced yard - dealing with a Setter without secure fencing is a part-time job
- Work long hours away from home - separation anxiety is significant
- Cannot commit to 60-90 min daily exercise
- Fastidious housekeepers - mud, hair, and water drips are part of the package
Saint Bernard Dealbreakers
- Cannot meet 30-60 min daily exercise
- Cannot tolerate heavy shedding
Surrender Risk
| Factor | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | Medium | Medium |
| Primary Reasons | Escaping - 'He won't stay in the yard', Too much energy for owner's lifestyle, Separation anxiety and barking when left alone | Underestimated exercise needs, Behavioral challenges, Cost of care |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | Medium | High |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | Medium | Low |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Low | Low |
English Setter Social Traits
Low
Low - generally excellent with other dogs and enjoy pack life. Same-sex aggression is rare.
Saint Bernard Social Traits
Moderate
Generally friendly
Training
English Setter
- They are 'soft' dogs - harsh corrections or yelling will cause them to shut down or become fearful
- Recall training must be proofed with high distractions - a long line is recommended until reliability is 100%
- Use high-value treats to compete with bird distractions
Saint Bernard
- ** Positive reinforcement is mandatory. They are sensitive souls; harsh corrections will cause them to shut down or become fearful.
English Setter Considerations
English Setters are intensely social 'velcro' dogs that bond deeply with their humans. Left alone for 8+ hours without conditioning or companionship, they frequently develop severe anxiety manifesting as destructive chewing, house soiling, and persistent howling.
Their predatory drive is all-consuming. On walks, they may become deaf to commands if they catch a scent or spot a bird. Off-leash reliability in unfenced areas is nearly impossible for the average owner.
Bored or under-exercised Setters are notorious for testing perimeter security. Their athleticism allows them to jump moderate fences, and digging instincts can compromise fence lines if they see prey on the other side.
Saint Bernard Considerations
Despite their size, Saints are profoundly needy. They do not tolerate isolation well and can develop destructive separation anxiety. A 160lb dog with anxiety can destroy drywall, doors, and furniture in minutes.
While benevolent, they are not blindly obedient like a Golden Retriever. They possess a slow-burning stubbornness; if a Saint Bernard decides not to move, you cannot physically force them. This requires patience and psychological motivation rather than physical correction.
Between 8 and 24 months, they are essentially giant, clumsy puppies. They can unintentionally knock over children, grandparents, and furniture. Leash manners must be solidified before they reach full weight, or they will become dangerous to walk.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | Risky - while some can live with cats if raised together, the instinct to chase is hardwired. Generally not safe. | Generally safe with proper introduction |
| Small Mammals | Caution required - rabbits and hamsters trigger the chase instinct. Supervision mandatory. | Supervision required |
| Birds / Reptiles | Unsafe - birds are their ancestral prey. Will fixate on bird cages causing stress to both animals. | Caution advised |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Arrested | Medium |
| Biddability | High | Low |
| Noise Sensitivity | Low | Low |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | N/A | 18 months |
English Setter: Predatory sequence is Orient -> Eye -> Stalk -> Chase -> Point. The 'Grab-Bite' and 'Kill-Bite' are usually inhibited, meaning they are less dangerous to prey than terriers, but the chase drive is just as strong. They want to please but are easily distracted by birds.
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 7-12 | 6-18 |
| House Training | Medium | Challenging |
| Crate Training | High | Medium |
| Adolescent Regression |
English Setter: Setter puppies combine high energy with a distractible hunting brain. House training can be slower than average (sensitive to surface textures). Very mouthy and prone to chewing furniture if bored. Around 8-10 months, they often 'forget' recall - this is when they're most likely to run off after a bird.
Saint Bernard: Saint Bernard puppies require consistent training and patience.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 12 months | 12 months |
| Adolescence | 12-24 | 6-18 |
| Adult Years | 2-8 | 2-8 |
| Senior Onset | ~9 years | ~8 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-3 years | 1-3 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 61-69 cm | N/A |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Large | Extra Large |
| Lifespan | 11–13 years | 8–10 years |
| Litter Size | 6-8 | 4-8 |
English Setter Coat
Saint Bernard Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Locating and setting (pointing) game birds on English moors for net and gun hunters | The Saint Bernard was developed by monks at the Great St |
| Origin | England, 15th-17th century | N/A |
Breeding Details
| Detail | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | Low | Varies |
| Whelping Difficulty | Easy | Medium |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Low | Low |
Physical Risks
| Risk | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | High | Low |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Medium | Low |
| Min Fence Height | 1.5m | 1.5m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Medium | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
English Setter Health Issues
Saint Bernard Health Issues
English Setter Suggested Tests
- BAER (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) test for deafness
- Hip Evaluation (OFA or PennHIP)
- Thyroid Evaluation
- Elbow Evaluation
Saint Bernard Suggested Tests
- OFA/PennHIP certifications for hips and elbows
- Ophthalmologist clearances for eyes
- Cardiac exams for heart health
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Medium | Medium |
| Cardiac Risk | Low | Low |
| Neurological Risk | Low | Low |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Medium | Low |
| Vet Burden Tier | Medium | Medium |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Low | Low |
| Food Allergies | Grain sensitivities possible |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Normal |
| Eye Care Needs | Low | Low |
| Anal Gland Issues | Rare | Occasional |
Senior Care & Aging
English Setter Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis/joint stiffness
- Cancer (hemangiosarcoma, lymphoma)
- Hearing loss
- Mobility issues
Quality of life often remains good until late. Cancer and mobility issues are the common end-of-life factors. Some reach 14-15 years.
Saint Bernard Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis
- Vision decline
- Cognitive changes
Senior care varies by individual health.
Grooming & Care
English Setter
high maintenanceSaint Bernard
high maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
English Setter Daily Life
Saint Bernard Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Over 50lbs | Under 50lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | High | Medium |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Good | Good |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Low | Low |
| Therapy Dog | Medium | Low |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Low | Low |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,000-1,500 | N/A |
| Initial Cost Range | $1,300–$2,000 | $1,000–$2,500 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $180–$275 | $180–$330 |
| Yearly Range | $2,160–$3,300 | $2,160–$3,960 |
| Food / Month | $75-125 | $100-180 |
| Insurance / Month | $40-70 | $80-150 |
| Grooming / Session | $65-100 | N/A |
| Vet Routine / Year | $600-960 | $500-800 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
English Setter Lifetime Cost
$25,000-45,000
Saint Bernard Lifetime Cost
N/A
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | English Setter | Saint Bernard |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Rare | Occasional |
| Slobber Level | Moderate | Low |
| Smell When Wet | Strong | Moderate |
| Zoomies Frequency | Daily | Occasional |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | Medium | Low |
English Setter Quirks
Setter Sprawl
Famous for sleeping in bizarre, contorted positions on furniture
Water Dripper
Loose 'flews' (lips) that drip water after drinking and leave slime on your pants after a nudge
Velcro Attachment
Will follow you to the bathroom - they need to be integrated into family life, not left as backyard dogs
The Off Switch
Indoors, a well-exercised Setter is a 'rug dog' - calm, quiet, and happy to sleep. Not hyperactive pacers like some herding breeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Turn your dog into a brand deal.
Pet brands are looking for authentic creators — not celebrities. If you own a English Setter or Saint Bernard, you can get free products, gear, and exclusive perks just for sharing your dog's life on Instagram.
No followers minimum · Free to join
Compare with Other Breeds
Compare English Setter with:
Based on comprehensive breed research data.